PULLMAN, Wash. - Washington State University Director of Athletics Jim Sterk confirmed that men's basketball coach Tony Bennett has accepted the head coaching position at the University of Virginia.

"Dick and Tony Bennett have elevated the men's basketball program at Washington State to an unprecedented level of success," Sterk said. "We will begin a national search for a coach immediately with the goal of finding someone with the integrity, experience, and values that Dick and Tony brought to the program."

Sterk said that Virginia asked for permission to speak with Bennett last Thursday night. Monday afternoon Bennett informed Sterk and WSU President Elson S. Floyd of his decision to accept the position at Virginia. Following those conversations, Bennett informed his players of his decision.

"He has done a fabulous job at WSU and we will greatly miss him," Floyd said. "We wish him every success at UVa."